Subversive and Affirmative Women Characters in American Drama of the 20th Century

Author

Tjaša Vranić

Mentor(s)

Biljana Oklopčić (thesis advisor)

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present a comparison and characterization of women characters of the subversive and affirmative American drama. The very beginning of the paper is dedicated to explaining the differences between these two subtypes of drama, and discusses some of their most important traits. It also shows how these plays were received by the audience and the critics. The main section offers a detailed analysis of the major female subversive and affirmative characters, focusing mostly on their reactions and behavior in similar situations and settings. Their characterization is based on some of the most distinctive traits that make them either subversive or affirmative characters. The last chapter analyzes women characters by taking into consideration their attitude to the American dream, success, the role of helpers in their life, and their life choices.